In today’s digital age, Aadhaar is not just an identity card, but has become the key to our financial security. From opening a bank account to getting a SIM card and receiving government subsidies, Aadhaar is mandatory everywhere. But did you know that this very convenience is now being exploited by cunning scammers.
According to recent reports, cases of Aadhaar-linked fraud are increasing rapidly, with criminals emptying your entire bank account in the blink of an eye using just your Aadhaar number and a wrong OTP. In this article, we will discuss in detail how Aadhaar scams happen, what cyber experts think, and how you can provide ironclad security to your hard-earned money.
How Aadhaar Fraud Happens
Cybersecurity experts say that scammers don’t directly hack your bank, but rather exploit your trust. Criminals often resort to fake calls, fake websites, and tempting SMS messages. Posing as government officials or bank employees, they ask for your biometric data or OTP in the name of Aadhaar verification. As soon as you share your information, they misuse the Aadhaar Enabled Payment System (AePS) and siphon off money from your account. Even fraudulent loans or fake SIM cards using your Aadhaar have become commonplace.
Taking Aadhaar security lightly can be costly.
An important report published by Manali Rastogi warns that even the slightest negligence regarding Aadhaar security can jeopardize your life savings. Since Aadhaar is a unique 12-digit number directly linked to your biometric identity (fingerprints and iris), falling into the wrong hands can lead to not only financial but also identity theft. Experts believe that a lack of digital literacy and any hasty action can become a major weapon for fraudsters.
Aadhaar Linking and Transaction Rules
To protect your privacy, it’s essential to follow certain strict rules. First, use Masked Aadhaar wherever possible, which hides the first eight digits of your Aadhaar number and reveals only the last four. Never share your Aadhaar number or OTP over the phone with strangers. If you download Aadhaar from a cyber cafe or public computer, be sure to permanently delete the file after completing your task. Always use the official mAadhaar app, as it provides a secure digital environment.
Cyber Security Tips
Experts have issued some important guidelines to avoid fraud. For any Aadhaar-related updates or services, only visit the UIDAI’s official website or app and never enter your information through any unknown link. The safest approach is to keep your biometrics locked. If you are not actively withdrawing money using Aadhaar, lock your fingerprint data so that no criminal can clone your thumbprint and withdraw money from the bank.
Also, avoid using Aadhaar services on public Wi-Fi as such networks are vulnerable to hackers. If you receive a message threatening to suspend your Aadhaar and asking you to click on a link, ignore it immediately. Visit your bank and activate SMS alerts for Aadhaar-based payments (AePS) so that you can receive instant notifications on your mobile phone about every transaction, big or small.